Thieves ransack boat in memory of Jay Muscat

The Muscat family have been left devastated after thieves ransacked their boat and stole irreplaceable memories of their late son Jay, who was tragically killed by a shark almost two years ago.

Mark Muscat’s boat, Young Salty Dog, which was being restored in memory of his son, was boarded on Monday night with thieves stealing Jay’s iPhone, which contained sentimental pictures and music.

Mark and Sheryl Muscat’s son Jay died after being attacked by a suspected great white shark while spearfishing at Three Stripes near Cheyne Beach in December 2014.

Friend Matt Pullella survived after firing his gun into the mouth of the shark.

Mr Muscat was ready to launch his new business venture, King George Sound Safaris, when thieves struck on Monday night at South Coast Cranes on Hercules Crescent where the boat was being stored.

A hole in the perimeter of the fence was cut and the boat ransacked with almost 40 items stolen.

Mr Muscat said his tools were used to strip the boat of fittings and electrical items including speakers and radio amplifier and spot lights along with fishing gear and tools.

Mr Muscat emotionally described the iPhone 4 as irreplaceable, which contained photos of his son and the music he listened to.

“I just want the phone back, really,” he said.

“It was a couple of weeks from going on the water.

“It’s going to be a couple of grand to replace, but the phone really hurts.

“If they give me the phone back, everything else is replaceable but the phone isn’t.”

Adding to the theft, Mrs Muscat was also grieving the loss of her uncle on the couple’s 20th wedding anniversary.

Mr Muscat said he was willing to offer a reward for the iPhone, which could be returned to the premises.

Police are investigating the burglary. Anyone with information is urged to contact Albany police on 131 444.